With the theme "From Recognition to Action," International Carers Day 2026 was celebrated through a vibrant and meaningful program. Organized by Carers Alliance Bangladesh—a pioneering platform advocating for the rights of parent-carers of children and persons with disabilities—the event was successfully held in collaboration with Carers Worldwide, CDD, SWID Bangladesh, and Apasen International. The celebration began at 12:30 PM with a colorful rally and a human chain. This was followed by a main discussion session and a cultural program attended by distinguished guests and carer members from various regions across the country. Key Highlights and Distinguished Guests The Honorable Minister of Social Welfare, Professor Dr. Abu Zafar Mohammad Zahid Hossain, MP, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest at 5:00 PM and delivered an insightful keynote speech. Expressing deep empathy for carers, he emphasized the need for specialized training to develop carers as entrepreneurs and giving priority to persons with disabilities in employment. He also expressed his full solidarity with the movement for carers' rights. Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, Honorable Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare, attended as the Special Guest and echoed his support for the rights and welfare of carers. The program was presided over by Md. Mahbubul Munir, President of Carers Alliance Bangladesh and Secretary General of SWID Bangladesh. In his presidential address, he highlighted four key demands for the state-level recognition and evaluation of carers: 1. Privilege Cards for Carers: Issuing privilege cards to ensure priority access to healthcare, banking services, and public transportation. 2. Monthly State Allowance: Introducing a dedicated monthly allowance for carers from the government. 3. Official Government Recognition: Granting formal state recognition to carers to uphold their dignity and social standing. 4. Institutional Inclusion: Incorporating carers into the activities and committees of various government departments, directorates, and agencies. He also clarified the fundamental distinction between a carer and a caregiver, noting that a carer provides unpaid support to family members, whereas a caregiver provides paid services within a scheduled timeframe. Other Distinguished Guests Included: • Mr. Kamruzzaman Dulal, Executive Director, CDD, and Executive Secretary, Bangladesh National Social Welfare Council. • Mr. Jawaherul Islam Mamun, Mentor, SWID Bangladesh, and Honorable Advisor, Carers Alliance Bangladesh. • Mr. Nazmul Bari, Executive Director, CDD. • Ms. Syeda Munira Islam, General Secretary, Inspiration Welfare Society, and 1st Vice President, Carers Alliance Bangladesh. • Mr. Ashfaq-ul-Kabir, Executive Director, Tori Foundation, and 2nd Vice President, Carers Alliance Bangladesh. • Mr. Shah Ali Masud Rana, Country Director, Apasen International, and Honorable Member, Carers Alliance Bangladesh. • Dr. Md. Shahnewaz Chowdhury, Honorable President, SWID Bangladesh. • Mr. Moinul Islam, Honorable Secretary General, Carers Alliance Bangladesh. Additionally, Kulsum Begum, President of Savar Carers Association, presented the keynote paper at the event. The gathering turned into a grand reunion with the vibrant participation of members from SWID Carers, Savar Carers, Gandaria Carers, Khilgaon Carers, Dinajpur Carers, and Narayanganj Carers, alongside parents of persons with disabilities and well-wishers from across the nation. Following the discussion, carers performed in a lively cultural program. Our collective journey to secure the rightful recognition and dignity of all carers will continue.